Most international visitors need a visa for China. Business visitors typically apply for an M (business/trade) visa, or an F visa for non-commercial exchange visits, through the Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) or a Chinese embassy/consulate — apply at least 4–6 weeks before travel. Two shortcuts may apply for Shanghai: the 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy for passport holders of 50+ eligible countries arriving at Pudong (PVG) or Hongqiao (SHA) and continuing to a third country, and China's unilateral 30-day visa-free entry for a growing list of nationalities (much of the EU, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and others). Visa-free policies are time-limited and revised frequently — verify your specific nationality on the CVASC/MFA site before booking. Bring printed invitation letters, hotel bookings and return tickets for immigration.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
USD 185 is the published single-entry fee for US passports; most other nationalities pay roughly USD 60–140. Requires an invitation letter from the organiser or a Chinese partner company. Fee varies by nationality; use M where the trip is commercial. An invitation letter is normally requested.
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